John “The Cannibal” Scott-Hamilton was back to his dominant best this afternoon, punching out a sub-25 minute time on the hilly Long Swamp course despite a strong Westerly wind which became a testing cross/headwind on the homeward leg.

Tour de France fever has obviously taken hold as despite the cold and windy conditions, 19 riders rolled up to the start line ready to do battle and emulate the heroic efforts underway in Northern France. Kirky needed to be somewhere in a rush, so he went off Go at which point a curious but notable calm descended on the rest of the group.

Phil Thomas was organising proceedings and he had the riders off at 60s intervals which worked out well for the course and conditions. Of the early riders, Alex Thomas showed good form returning a 29:05 with Wilf and Brendon also getting under the 30-minute mark, both recording 29:01. Captain Creagan (28:54) and Lachie McPhie (28:40) then brought the fastest time under 29 minutes before this was eclipsed by Holly Harris who, clearly hitting some great form after her close-run 2nd spot last week, gave her new Trek a work out with a powerful 26:32. Of the remaining 5 riders, only Ben Harris and Johnny made it under the 26 minute mark although Harrison came very close and had backed off notably in the closing stages. Houlty unfortunately experienced some kind of mechanical shortly after the start so recorded a DNF after heading home early.

Thanks to Phil for doing the signs and running the race. Well done to Johnny, Ben and H and and thanks to everyone for turning out and making it a great event in spite of some tough conditions. Next week we’re back on Dangarsleigh for a RROTY Handicap, see you all then.